Arthroscopic electrothermal capsulorrhaphy for the treatment of recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation

Acute temporomandibular joint dislocation is a common occurrence that is generally treated by conservative therapy. In some patients, this can become a chronic recurrent condition. This recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation (RTD) can significantly decrease the patient's quality of life and require some form of surgical intervention for correction. The purpose of this study is to present a minimally invasive alternative treatment for RTD using operative arthroscopy. 11 patients treated for recurrent temporomandibular dislocation between 2004 and 2010 were retrospectively analyzed. Electrothermal capsulorrhaphy was performed using a standard double puncture operative arthroscopy with a Hol:YAG laser and/or electrocautery. Postoperatively the patients were monitored for 6 months to 6 years. Of the 11 subjects, 2 suffered a recurrence of temporomandibular dislocation and required open arthrotomy for correction. The other 9 patients had no signs of recurrence or any significant postoperative loss of function. Electrothermal capsulorrhaphy is an effective and minimally invasive method for the treatment of RTD.